The Loue flows through the northern part of Chamblay. Renovated old farms and former manor houses along the Grande Rue are connected with Chamblay’s time as a timber transshipment port. The river landscape and the former timber rafting trade give the town distinct points of interest: history and architecture, as well as trails along the water.

Architecture and Rafting History

The Church of Saint-Étienne was completed in 1775. It is a Neoclassical hall church designed by Anatoile Amoudru, an architect from Dole. Its artworks include three restored 18th-century paintings.

The small Repaire des Radeliers de la Loue museum was established in Chamblay in 2014. It displays raft models, tools, boat remains, and other documents and eyewitness accounts. The combination of objects, models, and personal accounts brings together technology and stories of the past. The Sentier des Radeliers also highlights the history of timber rafting: the 15-kilometer trail leads into the Forêt de Chaux and is lined with information panels about rafting.

Trails and River Landscape

L'homme et la Loue is a very easy, 4.4-kilometer hike that takes one hour. The trail starts in Chamblay and runs along the Loue. Seven information panels explain traces of former river courses and introduce characteristic bird species found in the habitats along the route. The two trails differ in length: L'homme et la Loue is a very easy, 4.4-kilometer hike that takes one hour, while the Sentier des Radeliers covers 15 kilometers and leads into the Forêt de Chaux.

The Morte des Fontaines is an old river branch, separated from the Loue, that is considered a potentially important spawning and refuge area for fish. For the L'homme et la Loue circular trail, the parking area by the church is listed as the starting and ending point. The road route from Dole goes through Parcey and Mont sous Vaudrey, then follows the D472 toward Mouchard and Salins-les-Bains.

Fishing and Events

The Gaule du Val d'Amour offers fishing and nature workshops for leisure centers, schools, and organized groups. Check current booking options if you are planning to take part. The designated fishing area of the Gaule du Val d'Amour is in Lot No. 5 on the Loue.

Every year on National Fishing Day, the Gaule du Val d'Amour organizes an introduction to various fishing techniques for children and young people. Check the current dates in advance. The Confrérie Saint-Nicolas des Radeliers de la Loue holds various events throughout the year, including raft reconstructions, navigation, exhibitions, and conferences. For specific events, it is advisable to check the dates.

Discover More Destinations

Champagnole, Lac Des Rouges Truites, Censeau, Champrougier, Les Planches En Montagne, Nevy-lès-Dole, Montigny-lès-Arsures, La Tour-Du-Meix

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